A brave Busselton resident plunged into the chilly Swan River on Saturday for the Dare to Care Swim for Conquer Cystic Fibrosis.
Bec Pates was one of 40 swimmers in the one-kilometre event which raised more than $30,000 for research into the life-shortening genetic disease.
She swam in support of her friend and advocate Jackie Fraser who has the disease.
The second annual swim was deliberately held in winter to take the swimmers' breath away.
"It's a pretty poignant reminder of what it's all about and what Jackie and others face every single day," Ms Pates said.
Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic disease which primarily impacts the lungs and digestive system.
Due to a lack of salt in the cells, mucus becomes extra thick.
It then builds up in organs, clogs the tiny air passages in the lungs and traps bacteria.
Repeated infections and blockages causes irreversible lung damage and digestion is also impacted.
People with Cystic Fibrosis take between 20 to 40 doses of medicine daily and undergo daily chest physiotherapy.
"By taking part in events like this and supporting the research, I hope that there will be even bigger breakthroughs to allow people with CF to live long lives," Ms Pates said.
"Jackie is currently facing the prospect of undergoing a double lung transplant and that's scary for everyone who knows and loves her.
"Despite her battles, she is always smiling and inspiring everyone around her."
Conquer Cystic Fibrosis is a volunteer-run charity started by parents of children with the disease in Perth 16 years ago.
It is focused on research and has since raised more than $3.5 million.
A South West chapter was established by Bunbury mother Taryn Barrett in 2016 with the support of Jackie and her husband Aidan.
For more information on Conquer Cystic Fibrosis events visit www.facebook.com/CCFSouthWest